A step in the right direction?
So, I have this professor I really like. And every Friday, she goes to lunch with students. Part of the reason I like this professor so much is because she's the only conservative in the political science department, but a lot of it has to do with her teaching style and personality.
She is, however, very religious. Pentecostal, I believe (although she's also a proponent of being a good steward of the environment, helping the poor, feeding the hungry, but is also very pro-life, etc.). So while my sexuality has never been a secret, it hasn't come up until today.
I mention it as part of a larger conversation and no one really bats an eye. But 20 or 30 minutes later, she asks, "So, you're a Log Cabin Republican?" So from then, on the conversation has to do with homosexuality, how I'm treated, gay rights, etc.
Despite her own beliefs, she was very open-minded, understanding, sympathetic...she seemed genuinely interested and like she was really considering what I and the other people were saying. I don't think her mind was changed, but she was reasonable and the seeds were planted.
I just thought it was cool, and an example of how it can be important to come out. Coming out is what can help change hearts and minds.
She is, however, very religious. Pentecostal, I believe (although she's also a proponent of being a good steward of the environment, helping the poor, feeding the hungry, but is also very pro-life, etc.). So while my sexuality has never been a secret, it hasn't come up until today.
I mention it as part of a larger conversation and no one really bats an eye. But 20 or 30 minutes later, she asks, "So, you're a Log Cabin Republican?" So from then, on the conversation has to do with homosexuality, how I'm treated, gay rights, etc.
Despite her own beliefs, she was very open-minded, understanding, sympathetic...she seemed genuinely interested and like she was really considering what I and the other people were saying. I don't think her mind was changed, but she was reasonable and the seeds were planted.
I just thought it was cool, and an example of how it can be important to come out. Coming out is what can help change hearts and minds.